Job Description TEAM MEMBER WILL BE REQUIRED TO WORK ONSITE FOUR DAYS A WEEK AT OUR RALEIGH, HQ. Job Summary We are seeking a strategic, data-driven, and collaborative Category Manager to lead the development and execution of category strategies that drive business growth, optimize supplier relationships, and enhance customer satisfaction. This role requires a strong foundation in category lifecycle management, financial acumen, supplier negotiation, and cross-functional leadership. Key Responsibilities Category Management • Assess category lifecycle stages and align strategies accordingly. • Identify categories requiring resource reallocation and strategic focus. • Collaborate with research teams to integrate insights into category planning. • Leverage competitive pricing strategies in the market, including retail, promotional, and professional pricing strategies. • Resolve conflicts that impact category strategy execution. • Distinguish product types that perform best within specific categories. • Coach team members on category planning to improve business outcomes. • Champion product expertise and support cross-functional teams with training on strategic selling methods. • Champion customer-centric improvements across both ecommerce and in-store environments. Business Acumen – Financial Management • Analyze and forecast short- and long-term financial needs for assigned categories. • Evaluate business and investment decisions for financial impact. • Recommend improvements to financial tools and processes. • Interpret financial statements to assess risks and opportunities. • Apply financial metrics to support strategic decision-making. • Mentor others in developing financial literacy and responsibility. Supplier Management & Negotiation • Define supplier value targets and select appropriate suppliers for strategic sourcing. • Prepare and prioritize negotiation points using data from multiple sources. • Lead negotiations across product categories, applying BATNA principles. • Anticipate and counter supplier arguments effectively. • Evaluate supplier performance data to inform future negotiations and sourcing decisions. Visionary Thinking – Strategic Execution • Coach employees in strategic sourcing and category planning. • Translate business and industry insights into actionable category strategies. • Analyze customer trends and shifts to inform category direction. • Integrate strategic vision into daily operations and long-term planning. Communication • Communicate complex and sensitive topics with clarity and diplomacy. • Foster open dialogue and encourage idea sharing across teams. • Provide coaching on effective communication techniques and tools. • Actively listen to understand before responding and adapt communication styles as needed. Cross-Functional Leadership • Form and lead cross-functional teams to achieve category goals. • Define team roles, expectations, and success metrics. • Build effective promotional programs, lead execution, and analyze results in collaboration with suppliers and marketing teams. • Remove barriers to team performance and recommend process improvements. • Provide feedback and coaching to enhance team capabilities. • Establish recognition and reward systems to drive engagement and results. Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, or related field. • 5+ years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or procurement. • Strong analytical and financial modeling skills. • Proven experience in supplier negotiations and performance management. • Excellent communication, leadership, and coaching abilities. • Proficiency in category management tools, ERP systems, and data visualization platforms. Why Join Us? • Be a key driver of strategic growth and innovation. • Work in a collaborative, high-impact environment. • Competitive compensation and benefits. • Opportunities for professional development and advancement. California Residents Click Below For Privacy Notice https://jobs.advanceautoparts.com/us/en/disclosures We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.